The football world is in mourning following the death of West Ham United icon Billy Bonds at the age of 79. Bonds, who captained the Hammers to two FA Cup triumphs and made a club-record 799 appearances, was voted by supporters as the greatest player in the club's storied history.
A Colossus in Claret and Blue
William Arthur Bonds, MBE, was the embodiment of West Ham United for over two decades. His fierce determination and inspirational leadership made him a talismanic figure at Upton Park, where fans famously sang of his "eyes of blue" and stature, a testament to his larger-than-life presence on the pitch. He skippered the side to FA Cup glory in 1975 and 1980, and also led them to the finals of the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1976 and the League Cup in 1981.
Despite his immense talent and consistency as both a defender and midfielder, a full England cap eluded him, a source of lasting bewilderment for the West Ham faithful. His only call-up, for a post-season friendly against Brazil in 1981, was cruelly thwarted when he broke two ribs in a collision with his own goalkeeper in the final league game.
From Charlton to Immortality
Born in Woolwich, south-east London, Bonds began his professional career at Charlton Athletic, making 95 league appearances before West Ham manager Ron Greenwood signed him for £47,500 in 1967. Initially a right-back, he flourished in midfield, even finishing the 1973-74 season as joint-top scorer. After Bobby Moore's departure in 1974, the captain's armband passed to Bonds.
His leadership was immediately rewarded with the 1975 FA Cup win over Fulham, a team featuring Moore. Bonds played through injury, showcasing the bravery that defined his career. The 1980 FA Cup win was perhaps even more special, as he lifted the trophy while West Ham were a Second Division club, masterminding a 1-0 victory over Arsenal.
Management and Lasting Legacy
After finally retiring as a player at 41 in 1988, Bonds remained at the club, first as a coach and then as manager from 1990 to 1994. He secured promotion to the First Division in 1991 and later guided the Hammers into the new Premier League. He resigned in 1994, later claiming the board wanted to install his assistant, Harry Redknapp.
In 2019, West Ham United ensured his legacy would be permanently etched into their home, renaming the east end of the London Stadium the Billy Bonds Stand. A humble family man, Bonds was married to his wife Marilyn from 1971 until her death in 2020. He is survived by his two daughters, Claire and Katie, and two granddaughters.
Billy Bonds was not just a record-breaker; he was the heart and soul of West Ham United for a generation. His passing marks the end of an era for the club and its supporters.
